The Sustainable Shift as Fuel Prices Rise
Written by Bailey Kennedy
This is part of our sustainability series, as we look for ways to help contribute to a sustainable future for our country, and our planet.
Recently, oil prices settled up 5% leading gas prices to spike as a result. Despite Canada and other Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) saying they were going to dip into their own reserves, the prices at the pumps continue to creep up. With rising costs of gas, groceries, and goods, what changes can we make to keep costs down?
The first thing that came to my mind? Electric vehicles. In our house, we have one gas car and one electric vehicle. The number one perk of having an electric vehicle is that you never have to go to the gas station and stand outside in frigid Canadian winters. The other fantastic thing? It doesn't consume you in exhaust fumes when you’re trying to load your toddler into the carseat. Of course, with the benefits come the downfalls:you have to remember to charge it, and if you’re on a long road trip you often have to stop for 30 minutes or longer to charge up.
If you’re not ready to give up the safety and assurance that the oil-led infrastructure has set up for gas and diesel vehicles, there are other options for you. Hybrid vehicles, which provide you with the safety of knowing you have fuel-up options if you are running low, also offer battery powered reserves, longer gas-tank life and lower fill-up costs.
While Canada works on developing some pretty amazing forms of electric transit, the reality is that most transportation both for people and products, still requires oil. Planes, trains, boats and automobiles all use oil in some form to ship your food, your Amazon packages, and everyday goods around the world. You’ll start to see prices rise, from your everyday items in the grocery store, to those pesky delivery fees –so what can we do about it at an individual level?
Transportation:
Public Transportation
Lots of new bus fleets in Canada are electric! Check out your public transportation options in your city and see how they have evolved.
Walk
IIf you can, walk! With the rising temperatures outside as spring rounds the corner, you might just find that the fresh air and some much needed vitamin D are just what the doctor ordered.
Ride a bike or scooter
If you don't have a bike, most major cities have bike rentals you can easily hop on and get around the city. My favourite way to get around Vancouver, or any other hilly adventure, is by e-bike to give you a little boost up those hills.
Carpool
If none of those are options where you live, or because of kids and commitments, try carpooling. Not only will it help with the cost of gas, but you might just find your day gets a little bit brighter having some company along the way.
Trade in your gas vehicle for an EV
If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, now might be the time to look at electric options. They aren't as expensive as they used to be, you’ll get major points for reducing your carbon footprint, and the federal government just reintroduced the Electric Vehicle Affordability Program (EVAP) which you can read more about here.
Food:
Buy local produce and meat from farmers
The best way to cut out the middle man? Go directly to the source. Look up your local farmers who sell directly on their properties or have farm stands nearby, and buy in season produce.
Plant a vegetable garden
If you want the freshest fruit and vegetables possible, try planting your own this spring. You’ll get the most delicious fruits and veggies for a fraction of the price. (I’m talking to you toddler moms who eat a carton of raspberries a day.)
Goods:
Shop local
Have you left your house and shopped in-person lately? Now might be the perfect time to get out of the house, stretch your legs and browse IRL. It’s so easy to get sucked into the world of online shopping and sometimes the most fantastic finds are at your local boutique.
Seek out secondhand treasures If you’re looking for pieces for your home, check out second hand options from vintage shops or Facebook Marketplace. You’ll get them for a fraction of the costs and best of all, they are local and won't have long shipping times, fees and emissions.
While it doesn’t happen overnight, small individual actions add up and can make a big difference to our carbon footprint and sustainable impact on the future. We are all working together to provide a brighter, cleaner and healthier future for our planet. Start small, stay conscious and help make the shift towards sustainable transportation in Canada.